Modern-day burlesque is alive and well in Houston. And it has nothing to do with Cher or Christina Aguilera.

Several troupes perform regularly around the city, and among the most popular is Houston Burlesque Revue. The ladies of HBR combine dancing, singing, comedy and the art of the tease into one sparkly package. Troupe founder Lady Jae, who trained at the Houston Ballet, took it all off (figuratively speaking) to talk shop:

What is Houston like as a burlesque scene?
The burlesque scene in Houston has grown by leaps and bounds in the past two years. We saw an opportunity to bring burlesque back to Houston in all its glittered glory. Since then we have entered into a burly resurgence of an otherwise underground legacy of entertainment.

Three sure-fire songs that always work for a crowd.
“Diamonds are a Girls Best Friend,” Marilyn Monroe; “Fever,” Peggy Lee; “The Stripper,” David Rose and his Orchestra

What’s one of the biggest misconceptions about burlesque?
That anyone can do it. Burlesque professionals spend hours creating an act that includes concept, costumes, choreography, musicality, the tease and stage presence. Burlesque is artistry and not just striptease.

What’s the secret to coming up with our own perfect burlesque name?
Wordplay is key as well as personal interests. Or you could go with the classic, which is your first pet and the street you grew up on.

Where’s the strangest place you’ve found a runaway rhinestone?
On a leftover Christmas ham in Roo LaLa’s mothers fridge. We have no idea how it got there.

Three tips for someone interested in starting a burlesque career.
Be ready to put time and money into your passion. Prepare yourself and your significant other for the amount of clothing you will take off. Follow your heart. People will judge no matter what line of business your in. What sets you apart is taking that criticism and learning from it to perfect your craft.

“Burlesque the movie” — terrific or terrible?
The costumes and songs are great. We’ve actually used a few songs from the movie. Other than that, it’s an inaccurate interpretation of burlesque culture and more of a cabaret movie. Basically, it’s a watered down version of what actually happens at a true burlesque show.